Ingredients in Washing Soda

Washing soda is a non-toxic product used for various reasons. It contains only one ingredient and is typically mixed with water to perform cleaning duties around the house. The ingredient it contains also is found in many household products.

Sodium Carbonate

Washing soda is made from sodium carbonate. It is similar to baking soda, which is made from sodium bicarbonate. They are both non-toxic substances used for cleaning. But washing soda has a much higher pH balance than baking soda. The pH level of washing soda is around 11--the higher the pH level, the stronger the chemical.

Washing Soda Uses

Many grocery stores sell washing soda in the laundry detergent aisle. Laundry is the main use of washing soda. It is added to the laundry cycle along with soap; the soda softens the water and cleans clothes better than detergent alone will. Washing soda also is used to cut through grease and tough stains such as coffee, tea or lipsticks stains.

Warnings

Sodium carbonate is a strong alkaline ingredient. Although it is a safe, non-toxic cleaning agent, it's important to take precautions. Avoid breathing in the fine powder of the sodium carbonate. It is not harmful, but may irritate. It also is a caustic ingredient, so it is important to wear gloves when working directly with soda. It is capable of irritating skin and causing burning sensations.